Proverbs 11:24-26 (ESV)
24 One gives freely, yet grows all the richer;
another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.
25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.
26 The people curse him who holds back grain,
but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it.
Solomon begins with a surprising paradox. “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer.” The Hebrew verb translated “gives freely” is pazar, meaning to scatter or distribute broadly and generously. The picture is not of reckless spending or foolish financial decisions, but openhanded generosity toward others. Scripture consistently teaches this principle. 2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” The woman who graciously distributes her resources for the good of others will find that she possesses far more than she expected, not merely materially, but spiritually and relationally as well.
In contrast, Solomon warns about the person who “withholds what he should give.” This is not wise stewardship but selfish restraint. That might look like tightly guarding financial resources while spending lavishly on ourselves. It might mean withholding practical help because serving others feels inconvenient. Or it may include refusing hospitality because we prefer comfort, privacy, or personal ease. Yet Proverbs says this kind of clenched fist eventually leads to want. A life centered on self preservation does not produce true satisfaction.
Verse 25 continues the theme: “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched.” The Hebrew verb translated “enriched” is dashen, which literally carries the idea of becoming fat. In the ancient world, where famine and scarcity were constant threats, fullness was viewed as a sign of blessing, abundance, and satisfaction. Solomon adds, “one who waters will himself be watered.” Just as water determined whether crops flourished or failed, those who refresh and care for others find themselves refreshed by God in return.
Verse 26 addresses the hoarding of grain. In times of scarcity, some merchants would withhold grain from the market in order to drive prices higher and increase personal profit. Solomon says the people curse such a person because he exploits the desperation of others for selfish gain. In contrast, blessing rests upon the one who sells grain and provides for the needs of the community. The community rightly despises the one who hoards life’s necessities while others suffer, but honors the one who willingly shares what God has provided.
The Lord generously gives good gifts to all, and he calls his children to reflect that same generosity. Thinking about your recent spending, your schedule, and your relationships, would others describe you as openhanded or stingy? Are you quick to notice the needs around you, or are you quietly consumed with your own interests? Ask God to make you generous not only with money, but also with your time and your resources. Even if you feel you have little, there is always someone with less. God delights in hearts that freely pour out what he has first graciously poured into them.